McIntire Ally Program

The McIntire School has mobilized its faculty and staff to form an identifiable Ally group that supports all students, including minority students, LGBTQ students, first-generation college students, students with disabilities, veterans, and any other students who may feel marginalized by status or life experiences. Actively advocating on behalf of students and available to them as mentors, McIntire Allies help them navigate the academic environment, address obstacles, and reduce feelings of isolation, as well as provide a safe space for them to explore problems and solutions.

""Be kind, for everyone you meet is fighting a hard battle." —Plato. I was part of an organization in my undergraduate experience that worked to support others. I continue to believe that supporting each other is important."

"Since I started working at UVA nearly 10 years ago, I've worked closely with students who considered themselves as "other," or separate from the "typical" UVA population. No matter how you might identify, I am open to exploring what it means to feel on the outside, to be different, and to experience things with a different lens while being a member of the UVA community."

"I care about students' well-being in and outside of the classroom. I very much appreciate that everyone has unique challenges (some more than others), which can interfere with one's ability to experience happiness, connection, and achievement of goals."

"Being an Ally is an integral part of my role here at McIntire, and it's extremely rewarding to serve as a sounding board for students. Learning from others and sharing in dialogue are what make this place a community."

"I have chosen to be an Ally because I want all students to feel not just accepted, but celebrated at McIntire. I want all students to know that my door is always open. I am eager to listen and help with any problems that arise."

"As a former counselor and now a member of the Employer Relations team in Commerce Career Services, I would love to support students navigating the higher education experience and exploring the world of work. I promise to listen, support, and continue to learn about ways I can be a source of knowledge and support."

"I chose to be an Ally because I am dedicated to making every student’s experience at UVA comfortable, inviting, and wonderful. This sometimes means students need to reach out to those they trust to share challenging experiences. I hope students will feel free to bring these challenges to me so that we can work through them together."

"I have chosen to be an Ally because I believe decisions made are made better by hearing from a diversity of perspectives. The very idea of an ally means we each might hold certain beliefs, but the cause we're pursuing requires a spirit of banding together during a journey."

"Building a community that not just includes, but welcomes, everyone has been a core principle in the way I teach and try to live my life. We all have value, and a community that recognizes, invites, and values difference builds the kind of strength, compassion, and personal trust that empowers each of us to lead our best lives and help others to do the same."

"I look forward to serving as an Ally for McIntire students. I’m a first-generation college student, a McIntire grad (as of 2018!), a Jewish staff member, and a strong friend to the LGBTQ community (ask me about the same-sex Jewish wedding I hosted in my Alabama backyard!). My door is always open for students who need to talk."

"The choice to be a McIntire Ally was an easy decision for me, as it reflects who I aim to be every day outside of McIntire. There are so many people I owe thanks to, who were instrumental during my time as a college student. The least I can do is be that for someone else."